Miami Travel Guide

Glorious beaches and sultry Latin American flavour make Miami a unique holiday destination in the US. Known as the Magic City, it's long been the most popular getaway for 'winter refugees' who travel to the coastal city to escape the cold. It's also a top destination for party animals hankering for a hot and heavy nightlife. Shopaholics will enjoy exploring Miami's endless shopping venues, especially the pedestrian promenades; foodies will relish the city's impressive restaurants, whether they're dining on a budget or living the high life.

Visitors can explore the exciting neighbourhoods of the city itself, such as Little Havana and the Art Deco district. The surrounding Floridian beach resorts and the beautiful Everglades (an ecosystem unique to the region) are an easy distance away.

Best time to visit Miami

Traditionally, winter is the most popular time to travel to Miami as summers tend to be uncomfortably hot and humid with heavy thunderstorms. Those on a budget will find accommodation prices more reasonable during the summer off-season, though.

What to see in Miami

-Admire the art and design in the celebrated Wolfsonian Museum.

-Treat the kids to a wildlife experience on the lush Jungle Island.

-Visit the Spanish Monastery, said to be the oldest building in the Western Hemisphere.

-Educate and entertain the whole family at the Phillip and Patricia Frost Museum of Science.

What to do in Miami

-Hit the shops along the famous Lincoln Road Mall promenade.

-Enjoy sun, sand and sea on Miami's beautiful beaches.

-Explore the exotic Vizcaya Museum and Gardens in the heart of Miami.

-Spend a day bonding with marine animals at the Miami Seaquarium.

Beyond Miami

Miami is surrounded by endless attractions. The Biscayne National Park and the Everglades National Park are both close by and offer visitors a breathtaking experience of the local flora and fauna.

Getting there

Miami International Airport, situated eight miles (13km) northwest of central Miami, is one of the main air travel hubs in the US. Direct flights from the UK, a number of European countries and the rest of the US are available.

Did you know?

-South Beach has been voted America's favourite beach in a number of surveys.

-Miami is known as one of the cleanest cities in America.

-Fittingly, the first suntan lotion was invented in Miami.